Rooted in the Future:  Redefining Life on the Land:  Amelia Glass

Growing up in Rosa Glen, Amelia Glass (Rosa Glen/Witchcliffe Branch) learned early on that the land wasn’t just scenery. It was a teacher, a playground and eventually, a calling. Her family’s vineyard shaped her childhood, from reading books on the tractor armrest to proudly turning up late to school on harvest days with grape bunches for classmates.

As she moved to Perth for university, the absence of green space crystallised something she had always known - rural life ran in her veins. But it wasn’t until the summer of 2024 that her future came sharply into focus. Working alongside her father grafting Chardonnay, she began noticing differences between varieties, small details that opened a bigger path. That moment nudged her into vineyard management, cellar‑door work and eventually an agriculture degree. “I knew I wanted a future in regional Australia,” she says. “The wine industry just felt like home.”

Though determined, she is clear‑eyed about the challenges ahead. “Agriculture is still male dominated. I know I’ll have to work harder to be taken seriously.” Yet she feels proud to stand among generations of Australian women who have held farms, families and communities together. Their legacy strengthens her resolve. For her, the greatest test will be environmental. “Climate change will be tough .More droughts, more heatwaves, more unpredictability.” Her family’s solution is to constantly improve their land practices, including new biodiversity plantings beneath the vines. “Our goal is simple: leave the land better than we found it.”

While populations decline and age, one thing hasn’t changed: the strength of rural community. “In tough times, you can rely on your neighbours. That gives me hope for our future.” The CWA plays a central role in that hope. Her branch of Rosa Glen/Witchcliffe brings people together for seasonal celebrations and provide connection for women who may otherwise feel isolated. Just as importantly, they advocate for rural issues, from climate adaptation to regional health and education. Amelia’s message to the next girl wondering whether she belongs on the land is simple: “Give it a go. Farming is challenging, but the rewards are incredible.”

Rooted in her community, committed to her land and driven by a deep sense of purpose, she represents the next chapter of women in agriculture. A future shaped by resilience, innovation and the quiet strength of those who choose to stay, grow and carry the land forward.

Amelia Glass (pictured with her dog Elsa) has recently completed a Bachelor of Science, Chemistry and Political Science and is about to embark on a Masters of Agricultural Science, specialising in soil science and plant nutrition. Amelia intends to pursue a career in the agriculture industry.

In 2025, Amelia took part in the WA’s Youth Parliament, an annual youth-led advocacy and leadership program which acts as the most senior youth advisory body to the Western Australian Government.